Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help for Digestive Issues

Q: Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help for Digestive Issues

Hello： It is a normal drug reaction to experience increased flatulence or an increased frequency of bowel movements after taking a laxative. <br>If this is bothersome, you may consider reducing the dosage or discontinuing the medication, and then follow up for adjustments. <br>Ch

Abdominal pain

I previously had issues with constipation and spent nearly half an hour in the bathroom, only to pass a small amount.
The doctor prescribed a laxative, which I took three tablets before bed for three weeks.
After taking the medication, I find that I have to wait for abdominal pain to occur in the morning before I can have a bowel movement.
The pain is mostly located in the left abdomen, sometimes near the navel, and occasionally I experience a burning sensation.
I also tend to pass gas frequently before having a bowel movement, and the stool is mostly unformed and mushy.
Recently, it seems that the medication has been waking me up at night due to the burning sensation, and even after the medication wears off, I still feel the urge to pass gas, which I didn't experience before.
Should I stop the medication now, or should I continue taking it for a few more days to observe? Additionally, my primary doctor is not seeing patients this week.
Should I wait for his next appointment, or should I consider seeing another doctor? Is there a possibility that this could be colon cancer?

zero zero, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/20

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It is a normal drug reaction to experience increased flatulence or an increased frequency of bowel movements after taking a laxative.
If this is bothersome, you may consider reducing the dosage or discontinuing the medication, and then follow up for adjustments.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2023/07/20

More Info

Abdominal pain can be a complex and multifaceted issue, often requiring careful evaluation to determine its underlying cause. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing persistent left-sided abdominal pain, occasional burning sensations, and changes in your bowel movements, particularly after taking a laxative. These symptoms can be indicative of several gastrointestinal issues, and it is essential to approach them systematically.

Firstly, the use of laxatives, such as the one prescribed to you, can sometimes lead to dependency, where the bowel becomes reliant on the medication to function properly. This can result in altered bowel habits, including the formation of loose or unformed stools, and may also contribute to abdominal discomfort. The fact that you are experiencing pain that awakens you at night is concerning and warrants further investigation.

The symptoms you describe, particularly the left-sided abdominal pain and the burning sensation, could be related to several conditions, including but not limited to:
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate symptoms, and it often presents with cramping, bloating, and changes in stool consistency.

2. Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become inflamed or infected. It can cause localized pain, often in the lower left abdomen, and may be associated with changes in bowel habits.

3. Colonic Obstruction or Impaction: If there is a significant blockage in the intestines, it can lead to pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. This is particularly relevant if you have a history of constipation.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. These conditions often require specific diagnostic tests, including imaging and endoscopy.

5. Colon Cancer: While it is less common, especially in younger individuals, persistent changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal symptoms should be evaluated to rule out malignancy.

Given your symptoms and the fact that they have persisted despite treatment, it would be advisable to stop the laxative and monitor your symptoms closely. Continuing to take the medication may not be beneficial, especially if it is causing you discomfort. Instead, consider adopting dietary changes that promote regular bowel movements, such as increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and ensuring adequate hydration.

Regarding your follow-up with your primary care physician, if you feel that your symptoms are worsening or if you are experiencing significant discomfort, it may be prudent to seek a second opinion or consult another healthcare provider sooner rather than waiting for your doctor's next available appointment. It is essential to advocate for your health, especially when experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to a variety of gastrointestinal issues, it is crucial to have a thorough evaluation to rule out serious conditions. If you experience severe pain, fever, or any other alarming symptoms, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being should always come first, and timely intervention can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, doctor. My cousin seems to have a very poor digestive system. Every time he eats, he has to rush to the bathroom immediately, and it's not just once; it's usually two or three times before he feels better. I would like to ask what kind of problem this symptom mig...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. Peipei: It is likely that you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which can cause digestive discomfort. You may want to visit a gastroenterology clinic for a basic examination to rule out other possibilities. Additionally, adjusting your diet and managing stress, along...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, I often experience food coming back up from my stomach after meals, and I frequently have stomach pain. Today, I also had diarrhea, and sometimes I feel nauseous and have a loss of appetite. Occasionally, I experience stomach pain when I'm angry. In my childhood, I of...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. It is recommended to chew your food thoroughly and not to overeat, as this can help prevent such situations. If there is no improvement, you may consider visiting a gastroenterologist for an evaluation and necessary examinations. Changhua Hospital cares about your healt...

Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Since the start of last school year (September), I have been experiencing mild pain on the sides of my abdomen and in the four corners. At that time, my bowel movements were not very smooth, and the doctor diagnosed me with constipation, advising me to drink more water and eat ve...

Dr. Luo Yining reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If symptoms persist or worsen despite adjustments in lifestyle and dietary habits, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric gastroenterologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Persistent Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Since my school years, I have often experienced diarrhea, but it would resolve quickly. However, after entering the workforce, my gastrointestinal discomfort has worsened. A few years ago, I had inexplicable nausea that made it difficult to eat. After undergoing an endoscopy, no ...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If there is continuous weight loss or a positive fecal occult blood test, further specialized examinations of the small intestine and other areas are necessary, and a visit to a medical center specializing in small intestine diseases is required.